5 Ways to Experience the History of Cape Cod

When it comes to getting to know an area, nothing is better than doing so through their history. Most towns throughout our nation have such a rich history that visiting any of them can be a treat for the history buff in any of us. As you most likely know, the history of Cape Cod is a long and interesting one. It is filled with so many stories as well as interesting facts on how each town was formed and what it took to keep it alive and to become the thriving area we know today. We at Chatham Gables Inn love the history of Cape Cod and enjoy sharing it with all of our guests. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the history of Cape Cod, here are our top 5 ways to experience it.

One of the first ways to enjoy the history of Cape Cod is to head down to the National Seashore. Not only will you be amazed by the history that is there but also the beauty. There are trails to walk as well as the beach to explore. When you stand on the shore and look out into the water, you can get a sense of what life was like when Cape Cod was first being formed. Imagine seeing ships sailing in and its crew all wondering what they were to find once they got here. Before you plan your trip to the National Seashore, be sure to check out their page on history. It is filled with so many ideas and is a great jumping off point.

Our next recommendation for those who love the history of Cape Cod is to check out the Cape Cod Maritime Museum. When you have such a past with ships, boats, and the crew behind them, it’s natural to want to share their stories with everyone. At the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, you will find exhibits all about the history of Cape Cod. You will see it through art and artifacts that weave a wonderful tale. If you are looking for a more hands-on approach, then we suggest booking a tour on their Catboat Sarah. This is an 1866 replica and it is a great way to enjoy an hour or two on the water. Also, be on the look out for their exciting special event. Their calendar is packed with fun and interesting events.

The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History is our next suggestion for those who are interested in the history of Cape Cod. There are 3 main aspects of the museum that are conveyed to the public. The first is that they are a museum of natural history, the second is that they are a nature education center, and lastly, they are stewards of conservation of the land. All of these aspects are seen when you go to the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. The educators there will take you all the way back to glacial melting and through the introduction of humans on the land. Other exhibits will show you a view of what kinds of creature inhabit their lands and what their ecosystem is like. Lastly, not only does the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History look in the past, it looks into the future as well to show what life will be like thousands of years from now. As you can see, a trip here is really a great way to look into the history of Cape Cod.

Another interesting museum to plan to stop by is the Nantucket Whaling Museum. This is where you will get a great look at the lives of the men and women that were a part of the sea life here in Cape Cod. The history of this building dates back to the 1860’s when it was a candle factory. You will still see remnants of its past in the museum today. You will also get a chance to see part of a lighthouse that was used to help guide ships into the harbor as well as the skeleton of a huge sperm whale.

The last stop on our tour of the history of Cape Cod is to head over to the Aptucxet Trading Post in Bourne. The building that you will see is a replica of the original trading post and is built on the original foundation. You will be able to get a great look at Pilgrim architecture as well as the tales from the life of the building as well. Be sure to dedicate some time to this truly historic site.

As you can see, the history of Cape Cod is alive in modern times. There is something about discovering the past to make you appreciate your present. When you do decide to take a tour of the history of Cape Cod, we hope that you will make Chatham Gables Inn your home base. Our beautiful B&B is a restored sea captain’s manse that is 170 years old. However, all of our rooms are tastefully decorated in a Cape Cod style and are filled with modern luxuries to help you relax and enjoy your stay. Contact us today and let’s plan a trip to Cape Cod!